Walking Tours Te Anau

Join us from Te Anau for a small-group guided walk on the Routeburn Track, travelling along the scenic Milford Road to the Divide.
From the Divide Shelter, your 8 km return walk follows a well-maintained track through lush rainforest. With no more than 12 walkers per guide, we take the steady climb at a leisurely pace, allowing around 2 hours, with time to pause, enjoy the forest and learn about Fiordland’s natural and human history.
After climbing 400 metres, you emerge above the forest into Key Summit’s alpine landscape, with views of mountain peaks, alpine lakes and deep, bush-clad valleys. On a fine day, we stop for lunch amongst the alpine tarns. In unfavourable weather, we enjoy lunch in a nearby tramping shelter. Afterwards, we retrace our steps to the Divide before travelling back to Te Anau.
A packed lunch is available to pre-order for an additional charge, or you can bring your own. Please let us know any dietary requirements when ordering.
Difficulty: With a good level of fitness and walking ability, this is a rewarding and achievable day walk. We walk at a steady pace, with time for breaks along the way. Depending on the route taken on the day, the walk covers 7–10 km (4.3–6 miles), with 400 m (1,300 ft) of ascent and descent and around 3–5 hours of walking. The track is generally wide, with some short, steeper sections and rocky ground underfoot. Some sections have steep drop-offs, and conditions can change following weather events. Wet weather and cold alpine conditions can add to the challenge, so suitable clothing and footwear are essential. We operate in most weather conditions. This walk is not suitable for children under 8 years.
What to Bring: Bring comfortable walking boots or shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm clothing including a thermal hat and gloves, a sun hat, lunch (if not pre-ordered), a water bottle, a day pack and insect repellent. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing or activewear, as jeans and streetwear are not suitable for the walk. Walking poles are optional, and we can provide these on the day. For your safety, we may be unable to take you on the walk if you arrive without suitable clothing or equipment.

Start your day early with a scenic journey deep into Fiordland National Park, making the most of the quiet morning light and fewer crowds. Travel along the spectacular Milford Road with short photo stops at iconic locations such as Mirror Lakes and the wide, glacier-carved Eglinton Valley, perfect introductions to the scale and beauty of this World Heritage area.
Arriving at Milford Sound, board a boutique morning cruise and experience the fiord at its most peaceful. Glide beneath towering cliffs, past cascading waterfalls, and out toward the Tasman Sea, all before the main rush of visitors arrives.
In the afternoon, shift from sea level to alpine heights with a guided walk on the renowned Routeburn Track. Climb steadily through native forest to Key Summit, where expansive views open out across Fiordland’s mountains, valleys, and distant peaks.
This experience is ideal for fit and active travellers wanting to make the most of a single day in Milford Sound, combining a premium cruise with one of Fiordland’s best short walks, all hosted by the knowledgeable local team at Trips & Tramps.
Note this product requires a good level of fitness. We allow 3 hours for the Key Summit Walk. Wet and stormy weather may impact the trip so guests need to be suitably prepared for all weather conditions.

Start your day with a pick up from your Te Anau accommodation. Your local, friendly guide will collect you bright and early! You can sit back and relax as we drive along the scenic Milford Highway through stunning mountain scenery.
Morning guided walk on the Milford Track
Your guided walk starts at Deepwater Basin, Milford Sound, beginning with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point.
Enjoy an easy 5.5 km (11 km return) walk alongside the cascading Arthur River and moody Lake Ada, on a well-maintained track. From the ancient canopy trees towering above to the emerald-green ferns below and the birdsong that echoes through the trees, it is a unique World Heritage Area best explored by foot. Our destination is the impressive Giant Gate This spectacular waterfall is best viewed from the large swing bridge spanning the river.
We then return at a leisurely pace, taking the time to enjoy this incredible forest. The small group of 12 walkers to a Trips & Tramps guide provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the fascinating human heritage of the track. On completion of the walk an opportunity is made for photos at the sign marking the end the track. Walkers then re-join the boat for the transfer back to Milford. Afternoon boat cruise
After your walk enjoy Milford Sound’s awe-inspiring scenery from the comfort of a small boat cruise with Mitre Peak Cruises.

With purpose-built lounges and large decks, you can be sure you will get some great viewing opportunities. You’ll see the geological drama of sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers and rainforest. Keep a look out for wildlife like seals basking on the rocks or dolphins. During the cruise, friendly crew provide commentaries and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.
On conclusion of the boat cruise you will be transported back to Te Anau

Difficulty & Minimum Fitness/Health: Moderate fitness required, moderate walking. 50 m/160 ft vertical gain, 11 km/7 mile walk. There are some areas where terrain is rocky or rough underfoot requiring good stability. Walking time 3.5 hours, average walking speed 3-4 km per hour. On occasion, wet weather may make conditions more challenging when puddles or streams can be encountered. We operate in most weather conditions, so guests need to be suitably prepared. Recommended for ages 8-75 years.

Embark on an unforgettable private day hike with Trips & Tramps into the heart of Fiordland’s mountain landscape. Your journey begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Te Anau, with opportunities to stop and soak in the scenery en route to the Divide Shelter, the starting point of your adventure on the Routeburn Track.
Climbing steadily through lush, temperate rainforest, your experienced guide will bring Fiordland’s rich natural and cultural stories to life. After gaining around 400 metres in elevation, you’ll emerge into an awe-inspiring alpine world—surrounded by rugged peaks, hidden tarns, and sweeping valleys.
Lunch is enjoyed in the high mountains, with panoramic views if the weather allows, or sheltered inside a nearby hut. In the afternoon, explore further with an optional walk into the Greenstone Valley, or take in short trails and viewpoints in the dramatic Hollyford Valley before returning to Te Anau.
Difficulty: A good level of fitness and walking ability is required due to the 400-metre/ 1300 ft ascent and descent.Track is wide and in short sections it is steeper and rocky underfoot. There are one or two places on the track with steep drop offs. The walk is 7-10 km/ 4.3-6 miles. Walking time 3 (minimum) to 5 hours. Not suitable for children under 8 years. On occasion, wet weather and cold conditions in the alpine area may make conditions more challenging. We operate in most weather conditions, so guests need to be suitably prepared.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking boots/shoes, waterproof jacket, warm clothing including thermal hat and gloves, sunhat, water bottle, day pack and insect repellent. Jeans and street wear are not suitable clothing, please ensure guests wear suitable outdoor, activewear for the walks. Walking poles are optional, Trips & Tramps can provide these if requested. For safety reasons, clients may be declined service on the day if not suitably prepared.

Morning guided walk on the Milford Track
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Te Anau, followed by a scenic journey along the breathtaking Milford Road. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, there’s a short comfort stop before boarding a water taxi to cross the fiord and access the famous Milford Track at Sandfly Point.
Led by your knowledgeable and attentive guide, you’ll meander alongside the crystal-clear Arthur River and the serene Lake Ada. The tranquility of the early morning, accompanied by birdsong and lush greenery, sets the tone for an unforgettable immersion into Fiordland’s ancient rainforest. Towering canopy trees, vibrant emerald ferns, and moss-covered forest floor create a magical natural setting.
Choose your preferred walk:
Option 1 – Giant Gate Falls (11 km return)
Embark on an 11 km (7-mile) return walk following the Arthur River and Lake Ada through an enchanting temperate rainforest. The trail leads to the impressive Giant Gate Falls — a breathtaking cascade framed by native bush. A nearby swing bridge offers a stunning vantage point, perfect for photos. This option is ideal for those seeking a rewarding walk in one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
Option 2 – Lake Ada (up to 6 km return)
For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a shorter walk from Sandfly Point to the tranquil shores of Lake Ada. This 6 km (3.7-mile) return option captures the essence of the Milford Track without the full hike — ideal for those with limited time or looking for a gentler pace. It pairs beautifully with a Fiordland Discovery Lunch Cruise for a luxurious and immersive Milford Sound experience. Afternoon boat cruise (optional) or scenic stops

After completing the hike, you have the option to further indulge in Milford Sound's awe-inspiring scenery through a boat cruise (additional charges apply). The observation lounges and spacious decks promise unparalleled viewing opportunities of sheer cliffs, magnificent waterfalls, glaciers, and vibrant rainforests, with the possibility of spotting wildlife such as seals and dolphins. Following the cruise, we return you to your Te Anau accommodation.
Or if preferred, you can opt to explore Milford Sound's shoreline with your guide and take a more leisurely journey back to Te Anau.Your knowledgeable guide will tailor the return journey to align with your interests, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable Milford Track adventure.
Difficulty & Minimum Fitness/Health
Giant Gate Falls Hike
This option requires moderate fitness and involves steady walking over 11 km (7 miles) with a total vertical gain of approximately 50 m (160 ft). The track includes some uneven and rocky sections, requiring good stability and sure-footedness. Walking time is approximately 3.5 hours at an average pace of 3–4 km per hour. Recommended for ages 8–75.
Lake Ada Walk
This 6 km (3.7-mile) return walk has minimal elevation gain and follows a well-maintained trail suitable for most people. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a more relaxed experience.
Weather Considerations
Both walks are subject to Fiordland’s changeable conditions. Wet weather can make the track more challenging, with puddles and small stream crossings at times. We operate in most weather conditions, so guests should be suitably prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.